Scientists have created the world's first color 3D-imaging

A smaller version of the 3D scanner that's been used for studying cancer and vascular diseases is already yielding promising results, and thanks to the licensing agreement between CERN and MARS, the technology will be commercialized. When an X-ray beam passes through a body, its photons are absorbed at different amounts depending on the density of material such as bones. "The Medipix collaborations have adapted the technology to create new detectors which fundamentally change how x-ray images are taken and used". In simple terms, the tech detects and counts particles that hit every pixel and enables high-resolution imaging.

Phil and Anthony Butler, a father and son team in New Zealand who teach physics and bioengineering, respectively, have been developing the technology for a decade through their company MARS Bioimaging.

"This color X-ray imaging technique could produce clearer and more accurate pictures and help doctors give their patients more accurate diagnoses", read a statement from CERN.

According to a report by News18, the new device is based on the traditional black-and-white X-ray technology, which incorporates CERN's particle-tracking technology. This allows a higher resolution, allowing higher contrast variations. The latter together with more than 20 research institutes forms the third generation of Medipix collaboration.

The MARS system is a medical scanner that captures the human body with astonishing detail.

Through Medipix3, the colours generated will highlight the alternating energy levels and components, highlighting fat, water, calcium and potential disease markers, the duo have stated. "Real-life applications such as this one fuels our efforts to reach even further".

The technology is now set to be utilised in a new clinical trial for orthopaedic and rheumatology patients in New Zealand.